Lakeland University Ranks Higher in U.S. News for Advancing Social Mobility

Lakeland University’s climb in the U.S. News & World Report rankings is more than a headline—it reflects concrete changes that have tangible benefits for students who come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.

What a Higher Ranking Means for Your College Journey

Being placed at #54 in the U.S. News list of Top Performers on Social Mobility signals that Lakeland is successfully enrolling and graduating a larger share of students who receive Pell Grants. For families who rely on these federal grants, the data shows a clearer path from high school to a bachelor’s degree. The ranking draws attention to the university’s strategies: a strong Cooperative Education (Co‑Op) program, partnerships with community colleges, and a tuition‑free promise for students from certain income brackets.

Why Social‑Mobility Rankings Matter

• Evidence of Success—The ranking is backed by data that measures actual graduation rates among Pell‑grant recipients.
• College‑Planning Insight—Prospective students can gauge which institutions provide the greatest return on investment for low‑to‑middle‑income families.
• Transparency—It encourages universities to adopt policies that lower financial barriers and expand support services.

The Carnegie Opportunity College Designation: A Nationwide Benchmark

In May, Lakeland became the only private university in Wisconsin to earn the Carnegie Opportunity College title. The designation, awarded by the Carnegie Foundation, requires a college to combine inclusive admission practices with strong post‑secondary outcomes such as graduate earnings and job placement.

Two main criteria were met by Lakeland:

• Broad Access—The university admits students from a range of socio‑economic backgrounds, especially those with adjusted family incomes below $50,000.
• High Impact—Graduates report higher earnings and improved career trajectories compared to peers from comparable institutions.

Co‑Op: Turning Coursework into Earnings and Experience

Over 3,500 placement positions have been offered to Lakeland students since the Co‑Op program’s launch in 2018. The model offers students a dual benefit: academic credit for reflecting on real‑world work, and wages that help offset tuition.

Key Features

• Academic Credit—Students receive credit for up to 12,500 hours of co‑operative experience, allowing them to finish degrees faster.
• Financial Aid Supplement—Nearly $10 million in wages have been earned by the cohort, and the program helps reduce student‑loan debt by more than 25% compared to other Wisconsin schools.
• Industry Connections—Partnerships with local and regional companies give students access to roles aligned with their majors, from engineering to business analytics.

How to Get Started

Prospective students should:
1. Review the Co‑Op application portal during enrollment.
2. Attend the quarterly Co‑Op showcase to meet hiring partners.
3. Work with the Career Center to prepare a resume that aligns with industry standards.

The Lakeland Promise: Tuition Coverage that Removes the ‘Can‑Do’ Barrier

Unlike traditional need‑based aid, the Lakeland Promise offers students with a family income of less than $80,000 100% coverage for tuition and fees through their graduation. The program is uniquely generous in Wisconsin, with the highest adjusted‑gross income threshold among similar state offerings.

Eligibility is straightforward: students must be Wisconsin residents with an adjusted gross income below $80,000 and must intend to complete a bachelor’s degree. The promise covers:

• In‑state tuition and mandatory fees
• Any additional fees that might otherwise constitute a financial barrier
• Full coverage for the entirety of the degree program (full‑time or part‑time)

Once admitted, students submit the required financial documents; the Promise team verifies eligibility and sends a confirmation letter.

Financial Planning Tips

• Calculate your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) accurately—deductions such as student loan interest or educator expenses can lower the reported amount.
• Plan for Cost of Living—Even with tuition covered, expenses such as housing, textbooks, and transportation remain.
• Leverage Work‑Study and Co‑Op to cover non‑tuition costs.
• Use state Higher‑Education Savings Plans (such as the UW College Savings Plan) to reduce the overall financial burden.

Strategic Partnerships with Wisconsin Community Colleges

Lakeland’s alliances with community colleges create seamless pathways from an associate’s degree to a bachelor’s. The 2‑Year‑Plus‑1‑Year model allows students to complete lower‑level courses at a nearby college, then transfer credits to Lakeland with minimal disruption.

For students already enrolled at a community or technical college, Lakeland offers:

• Transfer Credit Audits—Fast, free checks help avoid credit loss.
• Dedicated Transfer Advising Staff—Staff specialized in state transfer agreements.
• Co‑Op Opportunities for community‑college students—Extending the skill set before they reach the university level.

Action Steps for Transfer Students

If you’re currently studying at a community college, start by:
1. Completing the Transfer Credit Audit online.
2. Meeting with a transfer advisor within 30 days of enrollment.
3. Submitting your application for the Lakeland Promise if eligible.

Beyond the Numbers: Student‑Centered Resources That Make a Difference

Social mobility metrics reflect how well a university supports students holistically. Lakeland enhances outcomes through:

• Academic Advising—Personalized advising plans ensure students stay on track.
• Peer Mentoring—First‑year mentorship programs create a support network.
• Career Readiness Services—Resume workshops, interview preparation, and job placement efforts help graduates transition into the workforce.
• Well‑Being Center—Mental and physical health services reduce dropout risks.

Engage Before Campus Visit

Prospective students and families are encouraged to:

• Read testimonials from current students who have benefited from Co‑Op and the Promise.
• Explore the university’s virtual campus tour to see facility highlights.
• Attend an upcoming information session—often hosted by the Admissions Office.

How to Secure Your Spot at Lakeland University

The admissions cycle is open for the 2025–26 academic year. Students should follow these steps for a smooth application process:

1. Complete the online application and submit required documents by the deadline.
2. Submit the financial aid application (FAFSA) to determine eligibility for scholarships and the Lakeland Promise.
3. Schedule a meet‑and‑greet with an admissions counselor—this personal touch increases admission chances.
4. Apply for Co‑Op placement if you are a freshman or sophomore; upper‑classmen can explore late‑career opportunities.
5. Confirm your enrollment by submitting the enrollment deposit.

Pro Tips for a Strong Application

• Provide a concise statement of purpose that highlights your career goals and explains how Lakeland’s programs align with those goals.
• Include volunteer or work experience that showcases leadership and community involvement.
• Ask teachers or employers for letters of recommendation that speak to both academic aptitude and personal character.
• Maintain a GPA above the average incoming cohort; if your GPA is below, explain any extenuating circumstances in a supplemental essay.

Why Choose Lakeland University?

• Affordable College Experience—The Promise and Co‑Op program together can cut tuition costs significantly.
• Career‑Focused Education—Hands‑on learning prepares students for immediate entry into the workforce.
• Diverse Student Body—Lakeland’s commitment to inclusion fosters a vibrant learning environment.
• Geographic Convenience—The main campus in Plymouth is centrally located for students across the Midwest.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Below are simple actions you can take today to advance toward enrollment at Lakeland:

• Apply online for the 2025–26 academic year and enjoy a streamlined admission process.
• Schedule a campus visit to see classrooms, labs, and student life in person.
• Talk with an admissions advisor to answer your questions and discuss financial aid options.
• Explore the Co‑Op program directory to identify industries that align with your interests.
• Read success stories on the Student Stories page for real‑world outcomes.

Choosing Lakeland University is a decision that marries academic ambition with practical financial strategy. The university’s focus on social mobility, innovative Co‑Op work experience, and inclusive financial support ensures that more students from diverse backgrounds can complete a college degree and move into the next phase of their lives with confidence.

FAQs About the Lakeland Promise and Co‑Op

Q: What is the deadline to apply for the Lakeland Promise?
A: All admissions applicants receive the Promise while applying—no separate deadline. The program is incorporated into the FAFSA process.

Q: Do I need a job to participate in Co‑Op?
A: Yes, you must secure a position with one of Lakeland’s partner companies. The Admission Office can provide a list of current partners and application guidelines.

Q: How does the Promise affect eligibility for other financial aid?
A: The Promise covers tuition and fees, but students may still apply for federal loans, scholarships, or state aid for non‑tuition expenses.

Final Thoughts

Lakeland University’s ascent in U.S. News rankings reflects a sustained commitment to creating educational pathways that reduce financial barriers for economically disadvantaged students. With a proven record of high graduation rates among Pell‑grant recipients, a top‑tier Co‑Op program, and the largest tuition promise in Wisconsin, the university is a strategic choice for families and students eager to balance quality education with practical outcomes.

Take advantage of these opportunities now—apply, connect, and start building the future you envision.